That's not even close for Carter. JVR's contract is not a good thing to LA, as they're trying to clear long-term contracts, and a 4th isn't enough for the Kings to take that on. Much less return Carter at 50% retained.

Done deal

I'll grant that its light, but not sure what the market for carter is. His injuries and slow down in production, is partly to the system and talent around him admittedly, but JVR is still in a down year on a 25g or 45-50 pt pace. Hes a nice piece for the next 3/4 years. But LA does need to shed salary, just not sure hes worth a huge return. JVR is a top 6 winger.

If the pick was a 2nd and no salary retained, is probably closer,

but again LA would probably prefer youth or prospects, just not sure the value in Carter is there, hes on pace for less than 40 pts and his more recent injuries and age are a concern.

I'm not saying that Carter is going to get alot, my point was merely that wasnt paying the Kings enough to take JVRs contract. With retention, I'd probably expect just a 2nd round pick because there still is risk in taking on someone his age for 2 more years. But it's a 3C who's on pace for 22-24 goals (he's actually rebounded this year after that Achilles injury, and last night not withstanding has been durable this year) at just barely over $2.3mil. He could also move to the wing and play 2nd line minutes if needed, or in the event of a Nolan Patrick return. Offers nice depth to the Flyers lineup.

I'm not sure moving Carter is right for the Kings regardless. I'll take any picks we can get, but LA still has to ice an NHL team, and besides Vilardi, the prospects arent ready for the NHL yet. And he can be a good mentor to Gabe, Turcotte, JAD, Kupari, Akil Thomas, etc, who all are vying for the center positions on LA with a few capable of playing wing.